Newcastle have identified a top Manchester United target as their ideal replacement for Alexander Isak, who is now facing an uncertain future at St James’ Park.
Isak wants to leave Newcastle
Earlier on Thursday, news broke that Isak is keen on leaving Newcastle as he eyes a fresh challenge.
The Sweden international is understood to have told Newcastle chiefs that he is exploring his options this summer, having missed their pre-season tour of Asia.
Isak continues to be strongly linked to Liverpool and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United have ruled out the possibility of entering the fray for the 25-year-old’s signature.
United consider the operation too expensive, with Newcastle valuing him at £150m.
Newcastle do not want to sell Isak despite his intention to leave, but it appears they’re somewhat planning for life without him. Eddie Howe’s side are believed to be keeping close tabs on RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, who is also on United’s radar.
United want Sesko
United’s interest in Sesko can be traced as far back as the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer days, when the player was still at RB Salzburg. At the time, he snubbed the Red Devils in favour of moving to RB Leipzig.
Last summer, United were also linked to Sesko but a transfer never materialised. With the club on the hunt for a striker this window yet again, his name has unsurprisingly popped up.
It’s been claimed that Sesko, who missed out on a switch to Arsenal as they opted for Viktor Gyokeres instead, is now open to joining United. The Slovenian is prepared to snub advances from elsewhere to become the latest addition to the ranks at Old Trafford.
With Arsenal no longer in the running for his signature, United will find it easier to land Sesko if they press ahead with their pursuit. But, it appears they will have to ward off Newcastle, who are looking at him as a potential replacement for Isak.
Newcastle want Sesko to replace Isak
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, “Newcastle United are exploring a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in the event that Alexander Isak leaves.”
“The St James’ Park club have a long-standing interest in Sesko, who is a top target should Isak depart, although a deal would be highly challenging from a financial perspective.”
This has been corroborated by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano who wrote on X, “Understand Newcastle are attentive to Benjamin Šeško situation at RB Leipzig with Isak now keen on exit.”
Newcastle informed on Šeško deal costs while working on multiple deals including Wissa from Brentford.”
🚨⚪️⚫️ Understand Newcastle are attentive to Benjamin Šeško situation at RB Leipzig with Isak now keen on exit.#NUFC informed on Šeško deal costs while working on multiple deals including Wissa from Brentford. pic.twitter.com/z2cQJeRgty
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2025
Romano further noted, “There’s gentlemen agreement between Benjamin Šeško and RB Leipzig. The price tag for limited clubs could be reduced to range of €70-80m plus €5-10m add-ons.”
“This is only valid for few clubs considered “special” by Šeško.”
🚨🇸🇮 There’s gentlemen agreement between Benjamin Šeško and RB Leipzig.
The price tag for limited clubs could be reduced to range of €70-80m plus €5-10m add-ons.
This is only valid for few clubs considered “special” by Šeško.
🎥 More: https://t.co/f5lOw6PRmI pic.twitter.com/SRKiZeeAHD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2025
Sesko enjoyed a brilliant 2024/25 season with Leipzig, scoring 21 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions. He signed a new deal with the Bundesliga club in June 2024, which is slated to keep him at the club until 2029.
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
